If you’re dealing with a water-damaged ceiling, it’s crucial to identify the source to prevent further damage. Fixing a minor crack might only need some spackle and paint, but more severe issues could require a ceiling replacement.

Blistering paint and yellowish discoloration on your ceiling aren’t just unsightly. They are warning signs that there’s a potential safety issue in your home. Water damage deteriorates your home’s structure and can even lead to mold growth if not repaired in time.

Don’t let your ceiling damage dampen your mood. Here’s everything you need to know about fixing your water-damaged ceiling from

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What is ceiling water damage?

Ceilings can become water-damaged when water leaks accumulate above them. If you notice water dripping from your ceiling, there’s likely more to the problem than meets the eye. Leaky roofs, plumbing issues, and standing water are just some of the culprits.

Regardless of the source, a water-damaged ceiling requires urgent repair.

When neglected, even minor ceiling water damage can cause structural damage to the home. Moreover, the excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for dangerous mold spores.

If you notice even slight condensation on your ceiling, it’s best to quickly rectify the problem before it becomes an expensive and major fix.

Ceiling water damage repair costs

The average homeowner spends around $1200 on ceiling water damage restoration, depending on the source of the damage and the material type of your ceiling.

Drywall ceilings cost about $50 per square foot to replace, while popcorn ceilings are a bit more expensive, costing between $75 to $90 per square foot. Drop ceilings are the simplest to replace and can be purchased for as little as $4 to $68 per 2x2’ square.

Expect to pay between $60 to $90 per hour for labor costs.

MORE:

Does homeowners insurance cover a water leak?

Signs of a water damaged ceiling

Outside of water dripping from your ceiling, there are several less obvious signs of water damage. Here are some things to watch out for:

Cracking, peeling, or bubbling ceiling surface. Even the smallest crack, peel, or flake could indicate water damage.

Sagging or bulging drywall. If your ceiling is swelling, sagging, or bowed, there could be standing water above it.

Yellow, rusty, or brown discoloration. Water stains are a clear indicator of water damage. If there are stains, there has been time for the leak to seep out and dry.

Musty odors or mold growth. Even if a leak isn’t visible, musty smells or mold growth signal that you likely have water damage.

Key Takeaway If you notice even the slightest crack in your ceiling, you could have water damage. Investigate the problem as soon as you can to avoid expensive damage.

Causes of water damage on ceilings

Wind-damaged roofs, pipe leakages, and excessive rain are some of the causes of ceiling damage. If water has saturated your drywall or plaster, you need to figure out what’s causing it before repairing the surface cosmetically.

Here are some common causes to look for:

Missing/damaged shingles. If you’ve had severe storms lately, you should check on your roof’s integrity. Missing or damaged shingles could allow unwanted moisture into your household. If there’s significant damage from severe weather, it’s worth filing a claim with your home insurance company.

Clogged gutters. If your gutters are clogged, the water could seep into your walls or roof, leading to ceiling damage.

Leaky or burst pipes. If a pipe is loose or broken, you’ll need to repair it before you can move forward with any ceiling repairs.

Overflowing tub. If you’re not quick to clean up the excess water from an overflowing tub, the water could seep into your ceiling. This also points to some structural damage or flaws since the water could leak through in the first place.

Standing water and ice dams. If water is collecting and has nowhere to drain, it will result in water damage.

What should I do if I have water damage on my ceiling?

Here are the steps to take to repair water damage on your ceiling:

Find the source. Cosmetic repairs are useless if the leak is still present. Check your plumbing fixtures, attic, exterior walls, or even appliances. If you cannot locate the source of the leak, call a professional to help you.

Mitigate the damage. Turn off your water source, clear out damp furniture, and turn on fans to help dry out the area. You’ll also want to clean the area to prevent mold. If you’ve already spotted mold growth, make sure you document it with pictures to have the best shot at a successful insurance claim.

Fix the source. If all you have to do is tighten a hose, you can likely fix the problem yourself. For burst pipes or roof leaks, a contractor can help you repair the damage.

Repair the ceiling. For minor cracks in your ceiling, ensure the area is completely dry before spackling and repainting. For major issues, you’ll have to remove and replace the wet sections of drywall before priming and repainting. A professional ceiling repair company can take care of this for you.

If you’d rather get help from the start, calling a water damage restoration company might be the right way to go. They’ll have the insight you need to take care of the damage and will likely have referrals for ceiling repairs.

What to do if there’s mold on your ceiling

If you’ve spotted mold, the first thing to do is cut off the source of moisture. Mold spores can develop in less than 48 hours, so drying out the area can prevent further growth. It’s important to act quickly—it can take less than 72 hours for illness-inducing mold spores to spread throughout your home.

Disturbing the mold growth can be dangerous, so if you’re planning on tackling the damage yourself, make sure you dress the part. Wear long sleeves, pants, a respiratory mask, and safety glasses to prevent irritation from mold spores.

If you’d rather save yourself the trouble, call a mold remediation service. Not only are they experts at stopping mold growth in its tracks, but they could also help you avoid costly repairs. Most mold remediation services can help with navigating the insurance claims process.

MORE:

How to spot and remove mold on drywall

Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?

Water damage is usually covered if it’s caused by a covered peril. For instance, if a recent hailstorm or burst pipe caused the leak that caused the damage, repairs will likely be covered by your home insurance company.

Normal wear and tear, on the other hand, is not covered. If an old leak goes unnoticed, your home insurance company will consider it negligence and you won’t be covered for the damage.

Water damage from flooding is also excluded from standard home insurance policies. If you need protection from flood-related water damage, the

Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA) can help you find flood insurance.

Tips to make a water damage claim

To make a claim, you’ll have to prove that the water damage was caused by a covered peril. Here are some steps to follow to make processing your claim as easy as possible:

Notify your home insurance company about the damage. The first thing you’ll want to do is speak to an insurance representative about your coverage. If you determine that your situation is covered, file the claim so that your insurance adjuster can survey the damage.

Limit the damage. It’s your responsibility to stop the damage from getting worse if you can. Dry the area as much as possible and move undamaged possessions out of harm’s way.

Document all damages. Take photos and videos of any items that were damaged by the water. Include the affected area and the source of the damage as much as possible.

Hold off on making repairs. Outside of mitigating the damage, you’ll want to hold off on making repairs until your claim is accepted.

Key Takeaway Mitigate the damage while it’s ongoing. Not only can you save more of your belongings, but you also show your home insurance company that you’re making an effort to minimize the damage.

MORE:

How to make a successful water leak insurance claim

How to find affordable homeowners insurance

Repairing water-damaged ceilings can be pricey, but that doesn’t mean your home insurance bill has to be. If you want to save money on home, renters, or car insurance, the

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By using Jerry to shop for quotes, you’ll get the best coverage for the right price.

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How do you repair a water-damaged ceiling?

To repair a water-damaged ceiling, find the source, mitigate the damage, then spackle and repaint once everything is dry. Majorly damaged ceilings will require removing and replacing entire sections of drywall.

When will home insurance cover a water-damaged ceiling?

Home insurance will cover water damage in your ceiling if a covered peril caused it. For example, if a leak is the result of a burst pipe or a windstorm-damaged roof, then you will likely be covered for the ceiling damage.

Damage from flooding, wear and tear, and negligence will not be covered.

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